Leadership on the Rocks

Hosted by Bethany Rees

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Jun 2026

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June 10, 202637 min

#118 The Curiosity Curve: Why Curiosity Drives Leadership Performance with Dr. Debra Clary

What happens when leaders stop trying to have all the answers and start asking better questions? In this episode, Bethany Rees talks with leadership strategist and curiosity expert Dr. Debra Clary about how curiosity drives innovation, improves team culture, strengthens decision-making, and helps leaders create psychologically safe workplaces. You’ll learn: ✔ Why curiosity is a measurable leadership skill ✔ How certainty kills innovation ✔ Questions every leader should ask ✔ How curiosity helps de-escalate conflict ✔ Why disengaged employees often feel unseen and unheard ✔ How leaders can build cultures where people contribute ideas freely If you’ve ever felt pressure to “know it all” as a leader, this episode is for you. 🔗 Connect with Our Guest:  Website: www.debraclary.com   Free Resource: Click here for free Curiosity Assessment In about 6–7 minutes, the assessment provides a personalized snapshot across four dimensions of curiosity: Exploration, Focused Engagement, Inspirational Creativity, and Openness to New Ideas. It’s a practical tool leaders can use to identify where they naturally operate and where strengthening curiosity could unlock better conversations, stronger teams, and more innovative thinking. Listeners will receive their results immediately and can use the insights to start building more curiosity-driven leadership in their work and organizations. https://thecultureplatform.com/partner/event/76ea6091acb7dc7834d97fd71c3d4910  *** Leadership on the Rocks helps leaders build healthier teams, stronger foundations, and greater harmony between their professional and personal lives through coaching, workshops, speaking, and practical leadership resources. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

May 27, 202653 min

#117 Owners, Renters, and Vandals: The Mindsets Shaping Your Culture with Greg Hawks

In this episode, Bethany sits down with culture expert Greg Hawks to unpack what it really takes to build an ownership culture that fuels engagement, accountability, and results. Greg breaks down why most workplace cultures drift into dysfunction (hint: it’s not intentional) and how leaders can shift from overwhelmed managers to culture shapers. From the three workplace mindsets—owners, renters, and vandals—to the power of accountability and trust, this conversation is packed with practical leadership insight. You’ll also hear why AI can’t fix broken leadership—and what actually will. Key Takeaways: Why culture is the environment leaders intentionally (or unintentionally) create The 3 employee mindsets: owners, renters, and vandals How leaders can activate ownership instead of wishing for “better people” Why accountability is a progress partner, not punishment The role of trust, humility, and language in shaping culture Greg’s 5 Unlocks for building a culture people love Why upgrading your “human operating system” matters more than AI tools  🔗 Connect with Our Guest: Greg Hawks Website: https://www.greghawks.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghawks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greghawks *** Leadership isn’t about wearing different masks—it’s about standing on a firm foundation. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, consistency, and faith—without separating who you are at work from who you are at home—explore Bethany’s coaching, workshops, and leadership resources designed for real life and real leadership. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

May 13, 202632 min

#116 When Life Feels Tangled: How Leaders Move Forward Without Full Clarity with Tina Eliana

Leadership doesn’t always feel polished and put together… sometimes it feels like a tangled mess behind the scenes. In this episode, Bethany sits down with Tina Eliana to unpack a powerful visual: leadership is like needlework—beautiful on the front, but messy on the back. The question is… how do you keep moving forward when you’re stuck in the tangle? Tina shares practical and faith-rooted wisdom on navigating uncertainty, letting go of control, and taking the next right step—even when clarity is nowhere to be found. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why leaders often feel “put together” on the outside but chaotic on the inside The difference between a KNOT (something to work through) and a NOT (something to walk away from) How to stop spiraling with one simple question: “Is this in my circle?” Why trying to solve everything at once actually creates more chaos How to take one small, faithful step forward without full clarity The role of community, vulnerability, and even therapy in leadership growth Key Takeaway: You don’t need the full picture to move forward—you just need the next faithful step. 🔗 Connect with Our Guest: Tina Eliana Website: tinaeliana.comFacebook: facebook.com/TElianaOfficial/LInkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tinaeliana   Freebie: Five Leadership Lessons from a CEO is a collection of lessons designed to bring focus and perspective to the mindset, behaviors, and choices that define leadership. It's available at tinaeliana.com/resources  *** Leadership isn’t about wearing different masks—it’s about standing on a firm foundation. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, consistency, and faith—without separating who you are at work from who you are at home—explore Bethany’s coaching, workshops, and leadership resources designed for real life and real leadership. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

April 29, 202639 min

#115 The Frequency of Excellence: What Leaders Miss When They’re Too Busy with Scott Millson

In this episode, Bethany sits down with author and leadership coach Scott Millson to explore what it means to “tune in” to excellence in everyday leadership. Using the powerful metaphor of frequency, Scott shares how leaders often miss the most impactful lessons—not because they aren’t there, but because they aren’t paying attention. From his B5 Framework to stories from the Navy and executive leadership, this episode is a masterclass in presence, humility, and growth. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Excellence is always around you—you just have to tune in The B5 Framework: Be intentional, present, curious, bold, and reflective You don’t need all the answers—“I don’t know” is powerful leadership Growth happens in small moments, not just big ones Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal—proximity creates growth How you do anything is how you do everything Leadership is not about you—it’s about the people you serve 🔗 Connect with Our Guest:  Website: www.scottmillson.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-millson/  *** Leadership isn’t about wearing different masks—it’s about standing on a firm foundation. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, consistency, and faith—without separating who you are at work from who you are at home—explore Bethany’s coaching, workshops, and leadership resources designed for real life and real leadership. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

April 15, 202639 min

#114 Authentic Leadership & Culture That Connects with Dr. Valerie Arechiga

In this episode, Bethany sits down with Dr. Valerie Arechiga to unpack what it really means to lead with authenticity—and why culture isn’t built by policies, but by people. Drawing from her journey in education and her doctoral research, Valerie shares how leaders can create environments where every voice is valued, perspectives are honored, and connection drives performance. From the power of core values to the discipline of “pausing” instead of reacting, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for leaders in any industry. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Authentic leadership starts with knowing your core values—and staying true to them Culture is built when everyone has a seat AND a voice at the table The “power of the pause” can transform your decision-making and reduce reactive leadership Seek to understand before you assume—most people aren’t resisting, they’re lacking support Your background and culture are not limitations—they’re leadership assets The best leaders prioritize relationships over roles 🔗 Connect with Dr. Valerie Arechiga: LinkedIn: Valerie Nesmith-Arechiga, Ed.D Instagram: @Vaarechiga24  Website: thinkingnation.org  *** 💥 Want to Strengthen Your Team’s Leadership? Most initiatives fail not because of bad ideas—but because leaders aren't equipped to carry them through. That’s where Leadership on the Rocks workshops come in. Whether you're leading a school, business, or nonprofit, our customizable, story-driven workshops give your team the clarity, tools, and confidence they need to lead effectively and create lasting impact. 👉 Visit leadershipontherocks.com to book a workshop and empower your leaders today! CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

April 1, 202645 min

#113 Leading with Clarity and Courage in Complex Environments with Hema Gupta

In today’s episode, Bethany sits down with Hema Gupta, a leader working at the intersection of clean energy, strategy, and people, to unpack what it really looks like to lead when things are complex, fast-moving, and… let’s be honest… a little messy. Hema shares how leaders can move from overwhelm to clarity, why courage is a daily leadership decision (not a personality trait), and how elevating others is the real multiplier for sustainable success. If you’ve ever felt like you’re navigating constant change with no clear roadmap—this conversation will give you both perspective and practical direction. 💡 In this episode, we cover: Why clarity is a leader’s responsibility—not a luxury How to lead with courage when the stakes (and uncertainty) are high Turning complexity into momentum instead of paralysis The mindset shift from “doing it all” to elevating others Leading in industries and environments that are constantly evolving 🔗 Connect with Hema Gupta on LinkedIn *** CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks Linked In: Bethany Rees Twitter: @Leadontherocks Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com 

March 18, 202633 min

#112 Lead by Following: Why God Must Be the Leader of Your Leadership with David Schmidt

What if the key to strong leadership isn’t leading harder—but following better? In this episode, Bethany sits down with theologian, engineer, and business coach David Schmidt to explore how a leader’s worldview shapes everything from decisions to definition of success. David shares why Christian leaders must build their leadership on a foundation of following God first—and how daily time in Scripture transforms the way we lead, serve, and pursue results. They also discuss why success in leadership isn’t measured by profits or productivity, but by faithfulness and obedience to God. When leaders focus on diligence and honoring God in their work, the results are ultimately in His hands. Key Takeaways Your worldview shapes your leadership—what you believe about God and purpose influences every decision you make. Leadership transformation begins by following God first, not just adopting better mindsets or strategies. Sanctification matters in leadership—what’s inside you will come out when pressure hits. True success for Christian leaders is obedience and diligence, while trusting God with the results. The simplest leadership habit that changes everything: spend time in God’s Word every day. Resources & Links Free Resource: What God Says About Business: 5 Uncommon Truths for the Modern Business Website: https://www.redeemingbusinesstoday.com/ Podcast: Redeeming Business Today (Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music) YouTube: @redeemingbusinesstoday LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidschmidt-bible Newsletter: Leadership GPS (weekly leadership insights) 👉 Want more tools to thrive in leadership? Order my new book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

February 4, 202636 min

#111 Anchored Leadership: Leading With Purpose with Michelle Sloan

Burned out. Disengaged. Constantly chasing the next “urgent” thing? In this episode, Michelle Sloan explains why purpose is the anchor every leader needs — and what chaos, turnover, and culture drift look like when we lose it. You’ll learn: Why purpose drives decision-making How to stop chasing every shiny new trend A simple way to realign when your leadership has drifted Key takeaway: You have a unique purpose — and so does everyone you lead. Discover it. Lead from it. Pour Decision to Avoid:  Don’t let others define what’s urgent and important for you. 🔗 Connect with Our Guest: Michelle Sloan Website: https://sloanleadership.comBook: The Purpose Driven Principal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SloanLeadershipSolutions   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sloanleadership/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-sloan-9b80112a2/  Freebie: How To Achieve Work-Life Balance E-Book: https://sloanleadership.mykajabi.com/balance  ********************** Leadership isn’t about wearing different masks—it’s about standing on a firm foundation. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, consistency, and faith—without separating who you are at work from who you are at home—explore Bethany’s coaching, workshops, and leadership resources designed for real life and real leadership. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

February 18, 202651 min

#110 From Nice to Necessary: Building Real Collaboration with Kurtis Hewson

Real collaboration isn’t about being nice. It’s about building the structures that allow teams to think, challenge, and solve problems together. In this episode, Kurtis Hewson shares how leaders can move from surface-level cooperation to true collaboration by setting clear purpose, norms, and roles. You’ll learn why the room is smarter than any one person in it—and how to unlock that collective power.  If you want to build a culture where everyone thrives—not just gets along—this episode is your blueprint. We cover: The difference between collegial and collaborative teams Why structure actually increases creativity How to design meetings that are focused and solution-oriented The power of shared language (like locus of control) Why leaders must “set the banks of the river” and let the water flow 🔗 Connect with Kurtis Hewson Website: http://jigsawlearning.ca Book: Collaborative Response Book Podcast:  Building a Culture of Collaboration Newsletter (JL Insiders): http://jlinsiders.com Freebie: Click here for a free overview article for Collaborative Response Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube  CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks Linked In: Bethany Rees Twitter: @Leadontherocks Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

February 4, 202650 min

#109 Lead With Hope: How Leaders Build Resilience, Joy, and Belief with Brandi Kelly

In this episode of Leadership on the Rocks, Bethany Rees sits down with Brandi Kelly to talk about something leadership circles rarely prioritize—but desperately need: hope. Brandi shares her powerful personal story and introduces her HOPE Framework, a practical system leaders can use to build resilience, restore joy, and help people feel truly seen, heard, and valued. In this episode, you’ll learn: What hope really means in leadership (and why it’s not fluff) How pain can be transformed into purpose The HOPE framework: Habits – grounding yourself daily Optimistic Outlook – reframing mindset and stress Purpose, Passion & Perseverance – sustaining momentum Excellence – getting 1% better every day Why leadership transformation must happen inside out Simple, no-cost ways to build trust, belief, and connection on your team 🔗 Connect with Brandi: Book: Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy Website: https://sparkhopeedu.com/ - Click on Book a free consultation to learn more about the Leadership Kickstart program and the assessments within it (e.g. Enneagram) Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook Freebie Values Assessment: Values are your north star—guiding your motivation, passion, and definition of success. When your actions align with your values, you are living with purpose and fulfillment. 💥 Want to Strengthen Your Team’s Leadership? Most initiatives fail not because of bad ideas—but because leaders aren't equipped to carry them through. That’s where Leadership on the Rocks workshops come in. Whether you're leading a school, business, or nonprofit, our customizable, story-driven workshops give your team the clarity, tools, and confidence they need to lead effectively and create lasting impact. 👉 Visit leadershipontherocks.com to book a workshop and empower your leaders today! CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com